May 27, 2008

To the membership:

We have had a few reports of isolated  incidents of stress cracks  appearing  near the chainplates on some boats at Little Egg,  one in Minnetonka and at the Geneva Spring Regatta. These incidents reportedly occurred in heavy or puffy conditions  that in some cases included heavy crew weights,  and /or  high tension of the upper side stays. The Asymmetrical rig with the new second set of spreaders on the diamond stays seems to provide a much stiffer mast (which it is supposed to do to support the mast tip) and transfers loads more directly to the hull, through the chainplates because there is less flex.  These issues are perceived as minor and isolated and occurred during periods of stronger winds and heavier loads, but  we feel we should make the boat owner aware of this phenomena. The stress on the fiberglass may be especially true with those who may have converted their boat to the I-1 rig moving the chainplates aft on their own.  The A-sym was tested for 4 years and as an experiment and during that time stress cracks at the chainplates were not an apparent issue.  These tests, however, were not as extensive with the second set of spreaders on the diamond stays. Hence, it may be prudent to add addition support to the chainplates.

Melges, using their expertise with other designs,  has developed and fabricated, in a matter of days,  inexpensive bulkhead that may be purchased and glassed into the underside of the deck for additional support. They are prepared to mass produce if the interest dictates. We suggest E-boat owners consider this option  in conjunction with the A-sym  configuration with diamond stays.

Please contact Melges boat works if you are interested.

Rick Turner
NCESA Commodore